Check the stars! Most of us look at the stars when we want to book a hotel to get some sense of what might happen. And now some of the top-enders have gone to diamonds to rate their properties in an escalation of exaggeration that is almost heroic. Don’t bother about those 5 stars or diamonds..or half moons that many should use. What about the no stars boutique hotel that is a one of a kind? Blinded by choice…read on.
STEP 2:
Read reviews of the different hotels in your destination. Do this before you book hotels. Google/Yahoo the city and the word “accommodations” and see what happens. Get your list of 3 and then work on that from the top to the bottom as often the one at the top of your list may also be on a hundred other lists. Get their home websites so you can check these out, not just the reviews of others. Remember, we view things with varied colored lenses. Some folks like the monster properties with all the business services. Vacationers often avoid these and search for “unique properties”. Reviews will also tell you what previous guests liked (and didn’t like) in the hotel. The occasional vengeful doofus gets on these sites…so be careful. Sometimes, going to their site lets you book a room directly with the owner and you get lots more information. If they don’t have to share their margins with agencies, they may be able to offer you better deals. But, for heavens sake, don’t make a hotel decision on a few pesos! Cheap is sometimes the dumbest bargain you’ll ever make. If it is a smaller hotel, when you book through them you are their guests and so they feel greater responsibility towards you. Some websites don’t even have agreements with hotels they list on their site. In a crowded situation, you may just lose your booking.
STEP 3:
Ask people you know who have been in those places you want to visit. They may know of places that are not listed or because they have no stars or any other identity, they don’t make the radar screen. Some of the greatest and most successful small places are careful about who they accept and add to “the hotel family”. Some even ask for references!! In some holiday spots, a pool is just a delight. In others, a hot water bath in a tub may be just the luxury needed. Or a spa, a cinema, a game room, a play room with nannies on hand. Or a snug bar with a chatty host and a chance to meet other guests.
STEP 4:
Be clear about your “must haves” in a hotel room. An extra bed for your child, perhaps. A broadband internet connection in the room, hot water, hard mattress, bamboo towels, no carpets, every fabric has to be made of natural fiber, and whatever.. a desk to work on. The list can be endless but have your "must haves”. Many mom and pop and family run hotels build their business by going the extra mile in this area. If you’re not happy, they have a problem. A grumpy ex-guest in a smaller hotel has the marketing impact of a durian!
STEP 5:
Choose hotels that have a range of room rates. This way, you have a choice of rooms in case you may be disappointed with the one you booked.
STEP 6:
Choose hotels that have a range of amenities and services. It is always pleasant to stay in a hotel that has a spa, an infinity pool with a bar, several restaurants offering different cuisine, a gym, a unisex beauty salon, an al fresco coffee shop, a party room, a play area, a library, a travel agency, transport, broadband connection, a beautiful garden with ample parking and excellent function rooms. Of course, a business room with excellent staff is always a big plus for business travellers.Remember, if you're traveling, hotels can be more than just places to sleep. You create your own experience. How you relate to the staff and the other guests determines the quality of memories you take home with you. Think about it....when travelers chat, they hardly ever give more than a sentence on..let’s say..the Eiffel Tower…what’s to say? Who hasn’t seen it? It is the shared experiences of hotels and “lovely little restaurants”…or “amazing local bars” that really cut it. The right local hotel can give you all of these and more.. Do your homework and have fun with the staff and you’ll build a memory to hold and share forever.
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